North West Rail Link Master Plan and Urban Design

The North West Rail Link is Sydney's largest transport infrastructure project since work commenced on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The 23 kilometre rail link will cater for future growth in the booming North West region – more than 200,000 people will move into this growth centre over the next 40 years.

The master plan includes eight new railway stations, 4,000 commuter car parking spaces and a four kilometre sky train; delivering frequent, reliable and direct rail services between the North West and Macquarie Park, Chatswood, North Sydney and the city; saving commuters up to 3 ½ hours a week in journey times to the CBD.

The HASSELL design team, in collaboration with Arup and Aurecon, have been involved in the urban design, master planning and integrated transport and land use components of the project – a major initiative of the New South Wales Government, which will connect the existing line at Epping to the North West at Cudgegong Road via Norwest Business Park and Rouse Hill Town Centre.

Through the strategic transport and land use planning advice, assessment of the alignment and station location options, analysis of the interchange arrangements and traffic solutions and the subsequent station precinct designs, the team focused on exploring potential opportunities to improve and maximise public transport usage as a critical element in efficient, healthy and sustainable urban environments.

The design aims at developing a planning strategy that will meet the commitment of the NSW Government, stimulate sustainable growth, improve access to housing, jobs and services, increase transport choices and reduce the dependence on private vehicles – fostering the creation of memorable urban communities.